SAFETY PATROL GUIDE

The Patrol Pledge

I PROMISE TO DO MY BEST TO… Report for duty on time;

Perform my duties faithfully; Strive to prevent crashes, always setting a good example myself;

Obey my teachers and officers of the patrol; Report dangerous student practices;

Strive to earn the respect of fellow students.

SAFETY PATROLS… TODAY’S VOLUNTEERS,

TOMORROW’S LEADERS

[2]

Since 1920 AAA has sponsored the Safety Patrol Program. The distinctive fluorescent green belt is worn by 600,000 patrols in over 50,000 schools across North America. This program is the largest safety program in the world. In 1985, the AAA Safety Patrol received the Presidential Citation for private sector initiatives.

Many former patrols became national leaders. Former Presidents Jimmy Carter and Bill Clinton were patrols along with Senators, members of Congress and five current and former Supreme Court Justices. Five Olympic Gold Medalists, including Bruce Jenner, Eric Heiden and Edwin Moses are former patrols, along with 21 astronauts, Nobel Prize winner Dr. Gary S. Becker, baseball great Tom Seaver and former Miss America Margaret Ay.

In May of 1933, President Franklin D. Roosevelt said, “In addition to the day-today protection against accidents to school children afforded by patrols, the movement is unquestionably a fine builder of morale. It also develops a sense of responsibility which cannot but make for good citizenship.” I n 1967, Congress passed a resolution requesting the President issue a proclamation designating the second week of May as “National School Safety Patrol Week.” President Johnson signed the resolution.

For over 92 years, the AAA School Safety patrol Program has fulfilled its mission of assisting students by providing leadership, citizenship and a safe environment for children in and around schools.

Information taken from: www.midatlantic.aaa.com Updated July 2012

AAA SCHOOL SAFETY PATROL

PROGRAM

History

[3]

THE AAA SCHOOL SAFETY PATROL EQUIPMENT Safety Patrol Belt

The official look of the belt is the fluorescent yellow/green. How to wear the belt

Belts are worn over the RIGHT shoulder and clasped in the front. Badges are pinned on the shoulder strap of the belt at chest level. “AAA Safety Patrol” wording is on the BACK strap of the belt.

Belt care Your belt should be removed during off-duty hours, rolled up and kept in your back-pack Cleaning instructions

Remove badge For stains use a “spray and wash” type presoak Wash in warm water with soap (ok to put in washing machine) DO NOT use alcohol or abrasive cleaners. Rinse belt thoroughly. Hang dry – DO NOT put belt in the dryer

Safety Patrol Badge

How to wear the badge: Your badge is ONLY WORN on the patrol belt, pinned on the shoulder strap at chest level. The badge is removed only when the belt is washed or adjusted for outer wear. Removing and replacing the badge causes the pin to break. Cleaning instructions:

Clean badge with MILD soap and water. Dry immediately. DO NOT use abrasive polishes.

Safety Patrol Rain Poncho

Care instructions: If you have a poncho, protect it! By following the care instructions below, your poncho will last for several years.

Hang poncho to dry after wearing Make sure the sleeves are straight and holding no water. ONLY clean with a damp cloth, if needed

[4]

RESPONSIBILITES FOR SAFETY PATROLS

THE PLEDGE - You are required to memorize the Patrol Pledge. You will receive your badge when

you have memorized and recited the pledge for your sponsor. This must be completed by the November meeting. If you do not memorize the pledge, you may be removed from the patrol squad.

REPORT FOR DUTY ON TIME:

BE ON TIME - This is very important. Remember that you have to be at your post before the first student arrives. People are depending on you to be on time. If you work with a Crossing Guard, the guard will determine your arrival and departure times. If you are a bus patrol, you should arrive at least five minutes before the bus arrival time. Stay at your post for the full time and be alert to your surroundings.

INCLEMENT WEATHER – REPORT TO YOUR POST READY FOR DUTY. Dress appropriately for all types of weather. The Crossing Guard or Patrol Sponsor will determine whether you work your post in bad weather.

ALWAYS WEAR YOUR BELT & BADGE - Your uniform consists of a belt and a badge (issued when you know the pledge) that are to be worn while on duty. Wearing the belt and badge identifies you as a safety patrol for your school. Without the belt and badge, you have no authority to perform your duties. ALWAYS wear the belt on the OUTSIDE of your clothing, including coats and jackets. The only time you wear the belt under clothing is on rainy days when you wear your patrol poncho. If you are not issued a poncho, wear your own rain gear. Umbrellas are NOT to be used – they pose a danger to other students in

addition to not having the use of your hands. The belt and badge are symbols of respect, leadership and achievement – WEAR THEM WITH PRIDE!

PERFORM MY DUTIES FAITHFULLY: STAND IN CORRECT POSITION - You must stand in position the entire time. Stand at least three steps from the curb. You will be informed by the Crossing Guard, Bus Driver or Patrol Sponsor where to position yourself at your post. These positions have been chosen specifically because of the hazards that may exist at that spot.

NO TALKING, EATING, DOING HOMEWORK AT YOUR POST – REMAIN ALERT at all times. You cannot do your job if you are doing something else. Talking with friends or other patrols, eating or doing your homework at your post will take your attention away from your duties as a Safety Patrol.

NEVER LEAVE YOUR POST TO STOP FIGHTS - An uncovered post is a dangerous post and could present a dangerous situation. If a fight occurs at or near your post, gather any information you can about the fight and report it to your Sponsor, Crossing Guard, Bus Driver, or other adult. NEVER PERMIT FRIENDS OR RELATIVES TO WAIT AT YOUR POST- Friends, brothers or sisters may not wait for you directly at your post. If they want to walk to and from school with you, tell them what time you go off duty and plan for them to arrive at that time or have them wait away from your post so that they do not distract you from your duties.

[5]

STRIVE TO PREVENT CRASHES, ALWAYS SETTING A GOOD EXAMPLE MYSELF:

NEVER STOP OR DIRECT TRAFFIC - You DO NOT have the authority to direct traffic and serious injury could result. NEVER STAND IN THE STREET. There is not one patrol post located in the street, so there should be no reason for any patrol to be in the street.

DEMONSTRATE LEADERSHIP – OBEY ALL RULES YOURSELF. You are a role-model for other students who look up to you. Patrols never have discipline referrals. Because you are a Safety Patrol and a leader, respect for school rules and being able to take criticism from others begins with you.

BE NEAT AND CLEAN – YOU ARE AN EXAMPLE TO THE STUDENTS. Sloppy patrols give the impression that they will do a sloppy job. Students as well as adults will not believe you are serious about doing your job if you are not serious about your appearance.

OBEY MY TEACHERS AND OFFICERS OF THE PATROL: SAFETY PATROL OF THE YEAR AWARD – Each year, the Crossing Guards select a deserving Safety Patrol from each school to receive the “Safety Patrol of the Year” award. You must fully participate in all parts of the program. In addition to excellent service, you must complete the four requirements listed below to be eligible for this award.

1. Memorize the pledge by the November patrol meeting. 2. Do a safety poster (December) 3. Take the quiz (February 4. Write a paragraph (March)

IF THERE IS NO CROSSING GUARD AT HIS/HER POST –

1. Send someone to the school to let them know there is no crossing guard present.

2. Hold all children until either the police or an adult from the school comes to help students cross safely.

3. NEVER go into the street to direct or stop traffic yourself.

REPORT DANGEROUS STUDENT PRACTICES: REPORT ALL PROBLEMS TO THE PATROL SPONSOR, CROSSING GUARD OR BUS DRIVER – Your responsibility is to report any problems, disruptive students or unsafe situations. Discipline is handled by the school, not the safety patrol. Know when and how to report students who disobey safety rules. REPEATED offenses should be reported quickly to your Sponsor.

STRIVE TO EARN THE RESPECT OF FELLOW STUDENTS: BE POLITE AND RESPECTFUL – IF YOU SHOW RESPECT, YOU GAIN RESPECT. A bossy patrol does not earn the respect of the students. Treat other students and patrols the way you want to be treated. When correcting a student, remember the two magic words, “Please” and “Thank you”. A warning should be given as a second chance rather than a threat to get students into trouble. DO NOT argue with students or other

patrols and DO NOT put your hands on or grab anyone, except in a life-saving situation (example: a child about to run in front of a moving vehicle).

[6]

ALL OUTSIDE PATROLS

If you have a post outside with a Crossing Guard, at a bus stop or outside at the school, you are an outside patrol.

WORK WITH ADULT: Safety patrols with a post outside of the school, either with a Crossing Guard, in the bus lane or at a bus stop, must show exceptional responsibility and patience. Know where to locate the closest adult stationed near you. The patrols with a Crossing Guard will work with the Crossing Guard, bus patrols will work with the bus driver, but other patrols around the school will have to locate the adult stationed close by if they need help.

BE ON TIME: You must be at your post before the students arrive at school. Your Crossing Guard or Patrol Sponsor will set the times for you to be at your post. Patrols at the school leave in the afternoon when all students have left the building. When

patrols with a Crossing Guard see you leave, that is the signal the school is clear and they may leave. KEEP STUDENTS AWAY FROM THE CURB: Stand at least three (3) steps back from the curb, away from cars and buses. No matter where your post is, you should always stand between the students and the vehicles. FOOTBALLS, BASEBALLS, ETC.: Sometimes students will bring footballs, baseballs, and other play things to school. Remind them that these things must be held or kept in a bag and not played with when walking to and from school. Do not go or allow students to go into the street to retrieve a ball or other plaything. Explain to the student that if a ball, etc. goes into the street it must stay there. It is a serious safety violation to run into the street for any reason.

TAKE CARE WITH YOUNGER CHILDREN: Remember, Kindergarteners and first graders are hurt the easiest and picked on the most. Additionally, they may get lost or confused about where to go, especially at the beginning of the year. Watch out for them and let them know they can depend on you.

WHEN THUNDERSTORMS APPROACH: If you can hear thunder, you are close enough to the storm to be struck by lightning. Get to a safe shelter immediately. Stay away from telephone poles and metal pipes which conduct electricity. If you can’t reach shelter, find a LOW spot away from trees, fences and poles. If you are in a safe location – STAY THERE. A typical thunderstorm will last an average of 30 minutes.

[7]

CROSSING GUARD PATROLS

WORKING WITH A CROSSING GUARD Working with a Crossing Guard is an important job. Crossing Guards are assigned to streets or intersections that are dangerous for students to cross without help. You and the Crossing Guard work as a team. As an important member of the team, you must be alert and follow the Crossing Guard’s instructions at all times. SUBSTITUTE OR NEW CROSSING GUARD

If there is a substitute or new Crossing Guard, introduce yourself when you arrive and tell the Crossing Guard your duty times. Be prepared to offer information about the crossing, such as how many children usually cross and from what direction they will be coming. Make sure the Crossing Guard is aware of any extra responsibilities, such as putting out cones. Ask the substitute if he/she has any special instructions for you.

ASK QUESTIONS Never be afraid to ask questions about the operation of the crossing. This will help you assist a substitute or a new guard. The Crossing Guard will be happy to explain the whistle and hand signals so you have a better understanding of what he/she is doing.

Question the Crossing Guard about what to do if there is an emergency, such as an automobile accident or what to do if an emergency vehicle comes through the crossing. Know what to do if no Crossing Guard is there when you arrive (See Responsibilities for Patrols). CROSSING STUDENTS

The Crossing Guard will determine the safest location for you to stand. The Crossing Guard may move you to another spot at the crossing at times, in order to make the crossing as safe as possible for students.

FACE THE CROSSING GUARD at all times, with arms in the arms stretched position as a signal for the students to stand BEHIND you.

When you hear the Crossing Guard say “Cross”, you are to repeat “Cross” in a LOUD voice so the Crossing Guard is able to hear you. This is important because it helps the Crossing Guard know you are paying attention.

Drop arms and stand aside to let the students cross. When the Crossing Guard says “Hold”, repeat “Hold” in a LOUD

voice. Return arms to the arms stretched position.

Arms Stretched Position: Arms down at an angle with palms facing the students.

[8]

SCHOOL BUS PATROLS

The school bus driver is responsible for the safety of the students as well as for the bus. You and the bus driver work together to ensure the students arrive safely at their destination. The bus driver is the authority on the bus – your role is to aid the bus driver in any way the bus driver instructs. BUS STOP - While at the bus stop, patrols should try to maintain control and order. Sometimes this can be very difficult if there is only one patrol at the bus stop or if there is no adult present. However, it is the responsibility of the safety patrol to remind students of the safety rules and to report, to your Patrol Sponsor, any unsafe practices that occur at the bus stop.

ARRIVE EARLY - You should arrive at the bus stop no later than five minutes before the bus arrival time.

KEEP STUDENTS AWAY FROM THE CURB - Sometimes speeding cars on slippery

roads may lose control and go over the curb which could result in serious injury to one of the students. Remind them of the hazards of staying too close to the curb and report those who continually ignore your warnings.

ON THE BUS - You are an aide to the bus driver and the bus driver will instruct you of your specific duties and where you are to sit. Any safety violations that occur on the bus will be handled by the bus driver.

If students must cross the road to board the bus, they must wait for the arrival of the bus before crossing the road.

Students should cross only in front of the bus.

Make sure all students, including safety patrols, are seated and remain seated when the bus is in motion.

Keep the aisle clear of backpacks, instruments, lunch boxes and students’ legs.

Make sure students do not tamper with windows or doors, and make certain students do not stick their heads, hands or arms out of the window.

Make sure students do not toss objects out of the window.

Make sure students collect all their belongings before exiting the bus.

Report all violations to the bus driver.

.

REMEMBER: As a bus patrol, the bus is your post. If you are playing around and socializing, you are not attentive to your duties.

[9]

FLAG PATROLS

Raising and lowering our United States flag is both a privilege and a responsibility. Patrols that have this duty should treat the flag with the respect it deserves. The following instructions are taken from THE FLAG CODE OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA. RAISING AND LOWERING THE FLAG

The flag should be raised briskly and lowered slowly and ceremoniously. Ordinarily, it should be displayed only between sunrise and sunset. It should have a light if it is displayed at night.

The Flag of the United States is saluted as it is raised and lowered. The salute is held until the flag is unsnapped from the halyard (rope used to raise and lower the flag).

The flag should be at the HIGHEST POINT and at the center when displayed with other flags, such as the Virginia State Flag and the Prince William County Flag.

As the flag is lowered, NO PART OF IT SHOULD TOUCH THE GROUND or any other object; other patrols should be waiting to receive the flag as it is lowered.

The flag should be properly folded, according to the directions provided, before it is taken inside. HOW THE FLAG IS NOT TO BE USED

The flag should never be dipped to any person or thing. It is flown upside down as a distress signal.

The flag should never be used as a decoration, table covering or curtain. The flag should never be used for advertising purposes. No signage should ever be attached to

the pole or the halyard. The flag should not be used as part of a costume or uniform except for a patch, insignia or pin to

be worn on uniforms of police, military, firefighters or members of patriotic organizations. The flag should never have attached, any mark, insignia, letter, word, number figure or drawing of

any kind. The flag should never be used to receive, hold, carry or deliver anything.

WHEN A FLAG IS SO WORN THAT IT IS NO LONGER FIT TO SERVE AS A SYMBOL OF OUR COUNTRY, IT SHOULD BE DESTROYED BY BURNING IT IN A DIGNIFIED

MANNER. SEVERAL PATRIOTIC ORGANIZATIONS PERFORM THIS SERVICE ON JUNE 14, FLAG DAY. PRINCE WILLIAM COUNTY LANDFILL COLLECTS USED FLAGS.

[10]

How to fold the Flag

Step 1

To properly fold the Flag, begin by holding it waist-high with another

person so that its surface is parallel to the ground.

Step 2

Fold the lower half of the stripe section lengthwise over the field of

stars, holding the bottom and top edges securely.

Step 3

Fold the flag again lengthwise with the blue field on the outside.

[11]

Step 4

Make a triangular fold by bringing the striped corner of the folded

edge to meet the open (top) edge of the flag.

Step 5

Turn the outer (end) point inward, parallel to the open edge, to form a

second triangle.

Step 6

The triangular folding is continued until the entire length of the flag is

folded in this manner.

Step 7

When the flag is completely folded, only a triangular blue field of

stars should be visible.

http://www.usflag.org/foldflag.html

[12]

PREPARING FOR THE WEATHER

As a Safety Patrol, you are expected to report for duty no matter what weather we are having. It is very important you are prepared to work in extreme cold and extreme heat. TAKE PRECAUTIONS

Be aware of the weather predicted for any day you are to work outside. TV, radio and the computer are all good sources of this information.

Be prepared for any type of weather conditions. Changes in the weather can occur from morning to afternoon. You can always remove or add a layer of clothing.

WINTER MONTHS . Working in EXTREME COLD without proper clothing protection can result in:

Hypothermia - extreme lowering of body temperature; symptoms include uncontrollable fits of shivering, exhaustion and stumbling.

Frostbite - skin tissue exposed to below freezing temperatures; symptoms include feeling cold, severe pain, and finally numbness.

Dress warmly. Several layers of thin clothing provide better protection than one large thick layer. Wool and cotton are better worn next to the body; synthetic fibers such as orlon/nylon are better worn as outside layers.

The extremities (farthest from the body – hands and feet) are MOST vulnerable:

a. Mittens are warmer than gloves. b. Moon/hiking boots are warmer than tennis shoes.

d. Keeping dry is extremely important. If it is raining, protective rain gear should be worn, to include a rain poncho and boots (or bring a dry pair of shoes for the classroom).

e. Since 90% of body heat loss occurs through the head, wearing of head gear including earmuffs, hat and scarf is absolutely essential during the winter months.

NOTE: Pay particular attention to “wind chill” in the winter. If the weather forecast says the wind chill is 0 degrees – your skin thinks it is 0 degrees, even if the air temperature is warmer.

SUMMER MONTHS Working in EXTREME HEAT without proper protection can result in: Heat Stroke – symptoms include hot, dry and red spotted skin.

Heat Exhaustion – Symptoms include extreme weakness, fatigue, dizziness, headaches and nausea.

Avoid long periods in the hot sun, staying only for the duration of your patrol commitment. Light clothing should be worn to protect your skin and keep you cooler. Drinking small amounts of water often is very important, even if you are not thirsty. If you feel thirsty, you are already dehydrated.

NOTE: Pay close attention to the humidity. The higher the humidity, the hotter it feels, no matter what the air temperature is.

[13]

BULLYING

Bullying happens when one or more children use aggressive behavior to intentionally hurt other children. As a Safety Patrol, you may witness or be the target of a bully. Understanding and being aware of bullying is the first step to stopping a bully.

Types of Bullying Verbal (spoken)

Name Calling Teasing Insults Threatening someone with physical harm

Physical (bodily)

Hitting, kicking or pushing someone Stealing, hiding or ruining someone’s belongings Making someone do something he or she doesn’t want to do

Social (What kids do to hurt each other’s relationships) Refusing to talk to someone Spreading lies or rumors about someone Making someone do something they don’t want to do Excluding someone from a group on purpose

Cyber Using technology (emails, text messages, websites, blogs, etc.) to spread rumors and threaten

another person. Effects are often more damaging and longer lasting

Who is a Bully?

Boy or Girl Bullies come in all shapes, sizes and ages Anyone can be a bully

Why Does Someone Become a Bully?

Bullies are insecure (they don’t feel good about themselves) and they want others to feel the same way

To make themselves feel better about something that makes them unhappy Bullies are often the target of another bully For attention The Bully wants to increase their power and status, so they pick on someone they think is

weaker.

[14]

What To Do If You Witness or Become the Target of a Bully

Remove yourself from the situation. Report the bullying to your Bus Driver, Crossing Guard, School Counselor, Principal, Teacher or

Parent. Stay away from secluded areas where a bully might be more comfortable picking on you. Try not to let the bully see you get upset; Bullies target kids who react emotionally (crying,

begging, etc.). Surround yourself with friends who will stick up for you! If you witness bullying, DON’T cheer the bully on - get an adult. If you stick up for the bully, you

are a bully, too. Show kindness to the child being bullied and let the bully know that bullying will NOT be tolerated.

Do Not Become a Bully

Be aware of how your words and actions can hurt others. Know that all actions have consequences (something that

happens as a result of an action).

Be understanding of other children’s differences. Treat others as you would like to be treated. Remember: as a patrol, to gain respect, you have to

give respect! Do not take your anger out on another person. Use the “Take 5” rule – take five minutes to calm

down before responding to something that makes you angry. Talk to an adult you trust about angry feelings you may have. Do not try to make someone do something they don’t want to do. Listen for “No” and “that hurts” or “that’s mean” and back off.

Make your school a NO BULLYING zone.

NEVER KEEP BULLYING A SECRET!

[15]

ANIMAL SAFETY

As a Safety Patrol, you could come in contact with different kinds of animals, especially dogs. Learn how to protect yourself from wild and domestic animals (pets). DOG SAFETY

Never approach a dog you don’t know. Even the gentlest dog will bite if they feel threatened.

Report any stray dogs to the Crossing Guard or Patrol Sponsor immediately. It

is not safe for dogs to be running around loose.

When a strange dog approaches, remain perfectly still – never run or scream.

Never approach a dog that appears to be in pain. Get help from the closest adult to you.

If a dog is going to attack you, throw your backpack out – dogs will attack the first thing they come

to – make sure it is not your hands or face!

Do not give treats to any dog you don’t know, no matter how friendly they seem to be.

If a dog knocks you down, lie still and curl yourself into a ball shape to protect your face and neck.

Never play with or pay attention to any dog that comes to the crossing. Although most dogs are gentle, you don’t want to encourage a dog to stay with you.

OTHER ANIMAL HAZARDS

Never touch or go near any wild animal (squirrel, raccoon, mouse, etc.). No matter how cute they look; they are not used to people and may bite if you come near them.

Don’t ever feed a wild animal, even if they look hungry.

If an animal looks sick or injured, stay far away. An animal that may

normally be gentle may bite when it is sick or hurting. Tell an adult who can get help.

Stay away from cats you don’t know. Never pet or touch a strange cat, even if it seems friendly.

Information sources: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (www.cdc.org) Bulli Ray, Occupational Dog Bite Safety (www.bulliray.com) Internet site – www.kidshealth.org